Rhode Island Gunsmith > Training > Gun Safety Rules

Firearms Training

Gun Safety Rules

By + John P. Silvaggio

The following rules are NOT intended to minimize the risk of an accident. They are meant to eliminate the chance of an accident. All firearms mishaps are preventable simply by following the rules listed below:

1. Always keep your finger off the trigger until ready to shoot.
2. Always keep the gun muzzel pointed in a safe direction.
3. Always keep the gun unloaded until ready for use.
4. Always know what is behind your target before you shoot.
5. Always be sure the barrel and action is clear of obstructions before shooting.
6. Always treat every firearm like it is loaded.
7. Always store firearms and ammunition locked beyond the reach of unauthorized individuals.
8. Never point a firearm at anything you do not want to shoot.
9. Never pull a firearm toward you by the muzzle.
10. Never shot a bullet at a flat hard surface or water.
11. Never use drugs or alchohol prior or firearms handling.

To retort: There is no such thing as a firearm accident.

Addition Notes

• When your handgun does not fire when the hammer is released, keep the barrel pointed in a safe direction for at least 10 seconds before opening the action and removing the cartridge.
• The safety on a semi-automatic pistol is not foolproof, espectially on older models. The safety should be used in addition to proper gun handling.
• When showing a handgun to friends, open the action and make certain the firearm is unloaded both visually and physically.
• If someone shows you an unfamiliar gun, do not handle it until the action is open and the handgun is proven to be in a safe condition.
• If you hear a 'pop' or 'snap' when you fire, do not attempt to fire another round. Carefully check the barel of the firearm for obstructions but do not try to clear it without experenced help.